A devastating fire outbreak along the Kumasi railway line has destroyed properties worth millions of Ghanaian cedis, prompting an urgent response from firefighters.
The Ashanti Regional Fire Commander, ACFO II Peter Tettey, who briefed the media on the incident, describing the challenges faced in containing the inferno and the possible causes of the blaze.
According to ACFO II Tettey, accessibility was a major issue for firefighters, complicating efforts to bring the flames under control. “Yes, accessibility was a problem,” he stated, highlighting the difficulties in maneuvering through the affected areas.
The fire, which spread rapidly, engulfed several structures, with many residents and traders struggling to salvage their belongings. “We had to fight the fire from the roof and other difficult angles,” ACFO II Tettey noted, emphasizing the complexity of the operation.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing crackling sounds before noticing the flames. Some victims, who lost their goods, expressed frustration over the incident. The fire commander further revealed that informal settlements and makeshift structures along the railway line contributed to the fire’s spread.
“There were many assets left behind, and people tried to retrieve them, but the fire was too intense,” he said. While investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, authorities suspect that unauthorized electrical connections or open flames from cooking activities could have played a role.
ACFO II Tettey also warned of the dangers of unregulated structures and activities around the railway area, urging the public to exercise caution. “The general public must take safety measures seriously. We must prevent these unfortunate incidents from recurring,” he stressed.
No casualties have been confirmed so far, but emergency responders continue to assess the full extent of the damage. Officials have assured the public that further investigations will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the fire and prevent future occurrences.
Meanwhile, affected residents and business owners are counting their losses, calling for government support in rebuilding their livelihoods.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
